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If you’re an audiophile just like me, chances are you’ve probably heard about SVS. They’re one of the major brands in home audio systems, speakers, subwoofers, and everything audio. What makes the brand stand out is its subwoofer range, top of the line models at competitive prices.
The SVS SB1000 is a prime example of a compact yet world-class subwoofer. It’s one of the two lines of subwoofers by SVS in the entry-level/small size segment. As you would expect, it’s a compact yet incredibly powerful subwoofer that truly adds a whole new meaning to value for money.
If you have limited space and want to make the most of it, then the SVS SB1000 could be the right choice for you. I have tested the subwoofer in different settings and modes. This review should help you familiarize yourself with the SB1000 and decide if it’s the best compact subwoofer you can buy today.
Related: Check out the best speakers for small rooms.
The 12 inch driver in the SB-1000 pumps out loads of deep and powerful bass with low distortion, for smooth and accurate performance on music and movies.
Key Specifications of the SVS SB1000
Here is a quick overview of the technical specifications of the subwoofer:
| Amplifier Power | 300 watts RMS (720W Peak Dynamic) |
| Frequency Response | 24-260Hz |
| Acoustic Output | 115.4dB |
| Inputs | RCA, Speaker Level, 12V Trigger |
| Driver Size | 12 inches |
| Low-Frequency Extension | 22Hz |
| Dimensions | 13.5 inches x 13 inches x 14 inches |
| Warranty | According to industry standards ( usually 2 Years) |
| Latest price | Click here for the latest price |
Core Specifications of the SVS SB1000
If you’re looking for a concealed, functional subwoofer, the SVS SB1000 could be the right choice for you. Let’s have a look at the build quality and input options.
Design and Inputs
My first impression of the SVS SB1000 was that it’s quite compact and fits its conceal-size bill. I’ve tested many small speakers and subwoofers, but this one is definitely right up there in terms of performance with a relatively small stature.
The SB stands for sealed box design which makes it an excellent option for people who are pressed for space and need a compact subwoofer for their audio system.
It has a basic cubic design which I really liked. The cabinet features a 1-inch thick front panel and side panels are 0.75-inch thick. It uses medium density fiber, which is common in subwoofers in this price range.
Because of its size and simplicity, this is one accessory you can have in your room that will go unnoticed. The curved edges are definitely a nice touch and the black ash color, while standard, does add character to the subwoofer.
As you can imagine with a subwoofer as compact as the SVS SB1000, the 12-inch woofer (driver) and grille cover most of the front side. The driver features a throw design and works on the fiber composite cone and rubber surround. It reduces distortion through its motor technology along as well as dual ferrite magnets. The vented pole allows for low noise and greater cooling.
There’s an LED light in the front indicating when the subwoofer is switched on – blue to receive signals and red for standby. Is the light really distracting? With its relatively compact size, I didn’t think so, but I can imagine it can be noticeable in dark room setups.
All the buttons, connectivity options, and controls are located in the back. The SB1000 is equipped with a powerful amp that provides 300W of power and 720W of dynamic power. The DSP signal processor is definitely a surprise considering this one of the pocket-friendly options out there. This translates into more precision which gives the SB1000 a competitive advantage.
Connections and Controls
The SVS SB1000 has a few connectivity and control options that make it stand out in the budget subwoofer segment.
The SB1000 generally has most of the connectivity and control options that come with its competitors in the price range. It features a standard coaxial port along with line-level inputs and outputs. You also get 2 pairs of wire inputs that can set up 5-way speaker systems, which makes it ideal for both small speaker setups and home theater systems.
To round up connectivity is the AC/DC trigger input, which is another feature that’s not quite common in budget subwoofers. I have a feeling you’ll have a good idea by now about how this subwoofer is going to perform.
With the SB1000, you get the usual controls such as power and a standby/on switch. What makes this a good subwoofer to consider buying is that it has digital knobs to control volume, phase, and a low pass filter. This gives you greater precision and a noise-free audio experience.
The 12 inch driver in the SB-1000 pumps out loads of deep and powerful bass with low distortion, for smooth and accurate performance on music and movies.
Other Features
The SVS SB1000 is built with efficiency in mind with attention to detail in many features. It has less than 0.5W consumption in standby mode, making it a great subwoofer in terms of long term use and cost. It’s also an environmentally conscious choice as it’s lead-free. Now let’s take a look at how all these features translate into performance.
Looking for some good speakers on a budget? Check out the 5 best floor standing speakers you can buy for less than $500.
SVS SB1000 Performance
The SVS SB1000 subwoofer delivers and has impressed me with how well it works in a small room setup. It produces deep bass, so I would recommend setting it up near the wall for low distortion and an overall better audio experience.
To test the subwoofer, I set it up with my Klipsch RP-160M bookshelf speakers in a small room.
I did a more general use test during the day where I watched a few videos on YouTube related to work and played a couple of songs in between.
You can tell the precision of the SB1000 subwoofer is very good for its price range from the first time you play something. The clarity in the bass made for a great listening experience when I played some rock, jazz, and electronic music.
Next up, I watched a docuseries on Netflix called Explained and the audio feedback was just as good on the general test. I have to emphasize that if you set this up smartly in a space it’s designed for, then you’re going to be in for a treat.
For the sake of this test and pushing the subwoofer, I played a clip of a fight scene from the first Avenger’s movie. The clarity I got in all the sounds of the action, fights, shooting, and the Hulk smashing things was pretty amazing and the digital knobs certainly do their job in fine-tuning the audio.
That being said, I did feel that it lacked the oomph factor that comes with high-end, larger subwoofers, like in scenes where a lot is going on in terms of action, explosions, and bullets flying. That said, this is just me nitpicking. Overall, the SVS SB1000 delivers where it matters and that’s performance.
Pros of SVS SB1000
I’m a fan of basic audio accessories that actually do a lot, and there’s a lot of good happening for the SVS SB1000.
True Precision Bass
The bass really hits the sweet spot. I got surprisingly good clarity and precision that you would normally get from a larger and more expensive subwoofer. Once you set it up the right way and adjust the knobs, you can pretty much enjoy all types of audio experiences – music, movies, and more – without a hassle.
Minimal Design
I’m a really big fan of small things that can do a lot and the SB1000 definitely lives up to that bill. If you are someone with very limited space but still need a subwoofer that delivers quality performance, then this is a great option for you. Its compact size makes it easy to conceal the subwoofer and place it pretty much anywhere in a small room setting.
More Value for Money
SVS has made a name of itself as one of the best manufacturers of value for money speakers and subwoofers. The SB1000 boasts a DSP signal processor, 2 pairs of inputs to connect 5-way speaker systems, AC/DC trigger input, and digital knobs for greater precision.
All of these features result in a better audio experience. While common in the mid-range segment, these features are not readily available in the budget category. So what you’re getting is more value from a budget subwoofer that’s easy to conceal as well.
Cons of SVS SB1000
It won’t be a fair and honest review without looking at some of the shortcomings of the SVS SB1000. That said, there are only two things that I could point out and even they are subjective.
Not Ideal for Large Rooms
The SB1000 does quite well in a small room setting, but you will notice that the audio feedback falls short if you set it up in a large room. That’s not the intended purpose of the subwoofer anyway, but if you’re having guests over and need to set up your speaker system in the lounge, you will not get the same level of exciting bass that you normally do in a small setting.
Lacks the Oomph Factor
Again, this is very subjective, and for the price, you are getting more bang for your buck. Because of its compact size, the SB1000 is not able to produce the sound that would make, for example, an explosion in a movie sound like a real one. This is me nitpicking but for the audiophiles out there looking for a budget subwoofer, this is something to consider.
Alternatives to the SVS SB1000
While the SB1000 is definitely one of the best options to consider, there’s no harm in looking at alternatives. Here I’ve listed three subwoofers and two speakers with subwoofers to help you decide.
Klipsch R-12SW
Similar to the SB1000, the Klipsch R-12SW boasts a 12-inch driver and delivers 400W of dynamic power. It has LFE and line inputs that make it compatible with most receivers.
In terms of performance, you can get decent, precise bass from the subwoofer across the board – music, movies, and more. The copper subwoofer gives it a little more color than I would like but overall it’s a very good alternative to the SB1000.
The R-12SW features a 12-inch copper-spun IMG driver that provides a remarkably low-frequency response with minimal cone breakup and distortion.
Elac SUB1010
Even smaller than the SB1000, the Elac SUB1010 stands at just 10 inches, so this an option to consider if you have extremely limited space to set up a subwoofer.
The performance, for its size and price range, is very good, but not comparable to the SB1000. There are fewer input options as well, whereas, on the design end, it looks similar to its counterpart.
For the sub1010, the rich, powerful bottom octaves are fundamental—literally—to the life of music and movie soundtracks when it comes to reproducing the full spectrum of instruments and sound effects.
Yamaha NS-SW100BL
One of the pioneers of sound systems, Yamaha has a very good subwoofer in the budget segment. The Yamaha NS-SW100BL is a high-performance subwoofer that produces rich bass despite its small frame.
It uses Yamaha’s trademark technologies for bass and low-frequency response. Again, it’s a little too small for my liking but definitely a top option to consider for a very limited space setup.
This subwoofer incorporates a number of Yamaha advanced, high-performance bass technologies, such as Twisted Flare Port, Advanced YST II (Yamaha Active Servo Technology II) with discrete amp circuitry and a high-quality 10" woofer unit.
Klipsch RB-51 II
What’s a speaker doing in a subwoofer alternative discussion? Well, if you can buy a speaker with a built-in subwoofer for less than $200, then I won’t exactly call it a bad deal!
The Klipsch RB-51 II stands just over 5 inches and delivers crisp audio with rich bass, all the while using less power. It features a black wood finish and a copper subwoofer that gives it a nice classic look.
If you don’t have a speaker system set up, this could be a good option for your room.
Fills medium-sized rooms with dynamic sound reproduction. Highly efficient design produces more output using less energy. Accurate, non-fatiguing sound.
Polk Audio RTI A1
This is one of my all-time favorite budget bookshelf speakers. The Polk Audio RTI A1 is another small bookshelf speaker that delivers high quality, surround sound output and rich bass with its built-in subwoofer.
I really like the cherry color scheme and the placement of the subwoofer. So this can not only be a great standalone system in a small room, but you could also set it up with the SB1000 for a more dynamic bass experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Can I Connect the SB1000 with a Home Theater System?
Answer: Yes, you can, but use it wisely. If your home theater system is set up in a relatively small room, then you will be able to feel the rich bass of the SB1000. You are doing yourself a disservice if you set up the subwoofer with a home theater system in the lounge or living area.
Question: What’s the Best Speaker Setup for the SB1000?
Answer: It’s great that you get to so many connectivity options because this subwoofer pairs very well with most speaker systems. My recommendation would be to set it up with a small surround sound speaker system – bookshelf preferably – for a great audio experience. Polk, Klipsch, JBL, and Pioneer all have great quality bookshelf speakers you can buy for less than $500.
Question: Is the SVS SB1000 the Best Budget Subwoofer in 2021?
Answer: The simple answer to this question is yes. SVS has certainly made me a fan with a surprisingly great quality subwoofer. I honestly did not expect it to sound as good as it did.
The SVS SB1000 is an ideal budget subwoofer for a small room that can be set up with a variety of speaker systems. If you plan to use it for the long run, then this is one of the best options you can buy today.
The SVS SB1000 made it very enjoyable to listen to music, watch videos on Youtube, and catch a few shows on Netflix. The bass clarity really makes an impact across music genres and action sequences in movies. Overall the subwoofer adds a nice touch to the overall audio experience you would get on a pocket-friendly budget.